The Enchantment of Hampton
Located in the heart of Kings County, Hampton is a town in New Brunswick that holds within its boundaries a rich tapestry of history and natural beauty. Perched along the picturesque Kennebecasis River, Hampton has developed from its early beginnings as a settlement for United Empire Loyalists in the late 18th century to a thriving town with a unique charm and identity.
A Journey Back in Time
The history of Hampton, New Brunswick dates back to the late 1700s, when French settlers and Indigenous communities had already established a presence in the area. However, it was the United Empire Loyalists in 1783 that marked the beginning of permanent settlements in Hampton. Just a decade later, in 1795, the Parish of Hampton was officially established, carving out its place in the evolving landscape of New Brunswick. By 1871, Hampton had grown into a vibrant community with a population of 250. Over the years, the town expanded, boasting a post office, stores, hotels, factories, and a thriving railway system that connected it to other parts of New Brunswick. The area known as Lower Norton Shore, once dubbed the “Yankee Shore” due to the influx of Loyalist immigrants, became an integral part of Hampton’s identity.
From Village to Town: Hampton’s Evolution
Hampton’s journey continued as it was formally incorporated as a village in 1966 before achieving town status in 1991. Throughout this transformation, Hampton remained a hub of activity in New Brunswick, serving as the seat of county government for Kings County from 1870 until 1965. Today, Hampton stands as a town with a population that surged to 4,395 in 2021, reflecting a 2.5% increase from the previous census in 2016. It is a town that cherishes its history, evident in the well-preserved Hampton Gaol, a provincial historic site that harks back to 1870.
Natural Wonders: The Hampton Marshes
Beyond its historical significance, Hampton is also celebrated for its natural wonders, chief among them being the Hampton Marshes. Located within the intricate web of the Kennebecasis River’s oxbows, tributaries, and backwaters, the Hampton marshes are a sanctuary for a diverse array of wildlife in New Brunswick. The Hampton Marshes are renowned for their significance as a migratory and breeding ground for waterfowl, marsh birds, songbirds, and birds of prey. They offer a haven for birdwatching, photography, recreational boating, canoeing, and kayaking. The Dutch Point Park Trail System and the Trans Canada Trail system provide opportunities for exploration, offering lookout sites and interpretation areas. The wetlands are home to numerous species of ducks, ospreys, herons, bitterns, and a myriad of songbirds. Fish such as pickerel, perch, bass, and sturgeon attract anglers from far and wide. The lush vegetation, including wild rice, arrowhead, and Burr reed, provides sustenance for the marsh’s inhabitants. Mammals like muskrats, deer, moose, foxes, otters, raccoons, beavers, and bats thrive in this ecosystem. The marshes’ recreational opportunities extend to wildlife viewing, hunting, fishing, boating, canoeing, cross-country skiing, and ice skating in the winter months.
The Enigmatic Charm of Hampton, New Brunswick
Hampton stands as a testament to the intertwining forces of history and nature in New Brunswick. Its journey from a Loyalist settlement to a vibrant town reflects the resilience and spirit of its community. Meanwhile, the Hampton Marshes, with their captivating wildlife and breathtaking landscapes, add an enchanting layer to the town’s allure. Explore Hampton, and you’ll discover a place where history and natural beauty come together in perfect harmony, leaving a lasting impression on all who visit.
